It's the middle of autumn but preparations for winter have already begun. We're working hard to ensure the best care can be delivered to our patients in the winter months but we can't do it without you.
Worried about the flu? It's down to you.
The flu vaccine is the best form of protection for you in the winter months. It improves all of our immunity, meaning not only are you looking after yourself but you're protecting those around you too.
Getting the flu vaccine eases pressure on our emergency services, sites and our colleagues by reducing admissions and helping the flow of cases through our Emergency Departments.
Did you know that 100,000 admissions were prevented last year because of the flu vaccination?
If you're eligible, it is free on the NHS and you can book it on your NHS app or on the NHS website. You can also book your vaccine at your local GP or Pharmacy. To check your eligibility, you can look on the NHS website for more information.
If you are a parent or carer, we strongly urge you to book the flu vaccine for those you care for.
Help your relatives get home
Once you, your relative or someone you care for has been discharged and is ready to leave hospital, it is essential that you help us to take the necessary steps to make that happen.
Our hospitals are even busier in the upcoming winter months and ensuring patient flow enables our colleagues to provide the best care for everyone who needs it and we need your help to do that.
Ensuring good flow of patients through our hospitals reduces pressure on our Emergency Department and reduces ambulance handover delays, which in turn supports our community and system partners to attend other emergency calls.
We appreciate that not everyone has a comfortable or stable home to return to, which is why we work closely with local system partners to signpost you to the right support when you're in our hospitals.
You can help by:
- Arranging transport from hospital: If you're able to collect your friend or relative please do so or book a taxi. Colleagues supporting patients can sometimes book transport if patients meet certain criteria.
- Having a plan for who your relative can contact if you aren’t available
- Stocking the patient's home or space with meals and other amenities to make them comfortable
- You can book a home assessment through your local council to see what adaptations can be made to make your relative more comfortable at home. This might be handrails or motion-sensor lighting.
Staying Well
Staying warm is essential in the months ahead and we've identified the nearest warm hubs across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.
You can find a local warm hub at any of the listed locations:
Eating well is also important for staying well and aiding recovery. You can find local food pantries and kitchens at any of the below times and locations:
- North Bristol and South Gloucestershire Foodbank
- North Somerset
- Weston-super-Mare Foodbank
- Bristol North West Foodbank
- South & East Bristol Foodbank
- Healthy Start for pregnant women
Helping your relatives, friends and neighbours stay safe can make such a difference. To prevent falls, consider installing handrails around your property, ensuring cables and items are cleared from floors and landings.
Exercise helps to prevent falls and also aids recovery if you do experience a fall. You can head to the Stay Active page for exercise videos and tips and tricks to stay active.
Taking these small steps can make a lasting difference and not only benefit you but benefit your relatives, your neighbours and your local community.